Dual-Pawl Locking Mechanism for Fail-Safe Secure Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms are assumed to provide secure connections without ensuring fail-safe locking, leading to potential insecurity if only one locking element is engaged.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism with independently rotatable first and second locking pawls, interacting with corresponding locking elements, ensuring secure locking only when both pawls are engaged, utilizing a fail-safe principle with spring forces and a Bowden cable for controlled rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single locking element is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of secure locking deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into multiple independent locking pawls (first locking pawl, second locking pawl) that can be rotated independently about a common rotary axis. Each pawl interacts with its own locking element, creating segmented locking functions that collectively provide secure locking while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Reliability
If multiple locking pawls are used, then the reliability of secure locking is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking pawls are merged into a single locking mechanism body, sharing a common rotary axis and housing. This consolidation allows multiple locking functions to be achieved without proportionally increasing overall structural complexity, as the pawls operate within a unified mechanism framework.
3Reliability
If independent rotation of locking pawls is enabled, then the reliability of locking is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pawls are designed to rotate independently through self-service mechanisms. When the locking mechanism engages with locking elements, the interaction forces automatically cause the pawls to rotate into their locked positions without requiring external actuation of each individual pawl, thereby maintaining ease of operation while ensuring reliable independent locking.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures secure locking in multiple directions by requiring simultaneous engagement of both pawls, providing visual and tactile feedback on locking status, and compensating for manufacturing tolerances through comfort pawls.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a fail-safe principle with spring forces and a Bowden cable for controlled rotation
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a fail-safe principle with spring forces and a Bowden cable for controlled rotation
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a locking mechanism provided and adapted to interact with at least one locking element to establish a locking between the locking mechanism and the locking element, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a first locking pawl and a second locking pawl which are rotatable independently of each other about a first rotary axis, wherein the first locking pawl is provided and adapted to interact with a first locking element and wherein the second locking pawl is provided and adapted to interact with a second locking element, wherein a secured locking is present when the first locking element is locked to the first locking pawl and the second locking element is locked to the second locking pawl.